It takes roughly an hour by bus, traveling 35 km north west from Dhaka city to reach Savar. There you’ll find one of the nations most iconic symbols, a monument representing the sacrifice made by those who laid down their lives to liberate Bangladesh in 1971.
Designed by Syed Moinul Hossain, it consists of seven triangular planes, each varying in size, with it’s highest point reaching 150 feet. I found it fascinating how the structure seemed to change its configuration as I viewed it from different angles.
Jatiyo Smriti Soudho
Constructed from concrete, all surrounding paving is red brick and the complex itself spreads over 84 acres of ground. A large body of water stands in the foreground, with the graves of many unidentified freedom fighters leading up to the monument as you approach on the main walkway itself.
Water feature
Thousands of people had come to spend time here, sitting next to a variety of small lakes and ponds, some swimming in the cool water, others having a picnic under the many trees planted around the grounds.
A differing view of the monument
Jatiyo Smriti Soudho, completed in 1980, is incredibly important to the population of Bangladesh, who are immensely proud of it. I was pleased to see that entry was free, inclusive for all, allowing access for the very poorest to visit. I was deeply moved and thoroughly enjoyed my time here, finding it a magnificent tribute and representation of the amazing struggle Bangladesh went through to gain independence.
